One of NYC’s most anticipated events, the enCourage Kids 10th Annual Serving Up Smiles, raised vital funds to support pediatric programs for hospitalized children across the nation. Held at the scenic waterfront venue Current in Chelsea Piers, the food tasting event brought hundreds of guests together for a cause close to their hearts.
ABC Sports Anchor Ryan Field emceed the evening alongside Jean Butler, President & CEO of enCourage Kids Foundation, who highlighted the importance of supporting hospitalized children. “We are proud to celebrate the joy, hope, and healing enCourage Kids Foundation provides to pediatric patients nationwide,” said Butler. She thanked sponsors, chefs, restaurants, and attendees for their generosity in amplifying the foundation’s impact on young patients.
Z100 Elvis Duran Morning Show hosts Elvis Duran, Skeery Jones, and Danielle Monaro led the fundraising appeal, sharing stories about the children benefiting from the night’s efforts. A silent auction added to the evening’s success, with guests excitedly outbidding one another for coveted items and experiences.
Notable attendees included Super Bowl Champion Marvin Washington, NFL Legend Tony Richardson, and Boxing Champion Boyd “Rainmaker” Nelson, who enjoyed dishes from Chef Glenn Rolnick, Culinary Chair and Director of Culinary Operations at Carmine’s and Virgil’s BBQ.
Guests indulged in mouthwatering creations from top chefs representing Artichoke Pizza, Bryant Park Grill, Carmine’s, Gotham Burger Social Club, and more. Drinks were provided by Aphrodise, FIJI Water, JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery, and others, making it a memorable night of food, fun, and philanthropy.
About Encourage Kids Foundation
Since 1985, enCourage Kids Foundation has been dedicated to humanizing healthcare for children and families by funding impact-driven pediatric programs and supporting the Child Life Community. Serving over one million children annually, their initiatives like Teddy Bears, Hospital Comfort Kits, Pet Therapy, and Creative Arts Therapies offer comfort and relief to hospitalized kids. The foundation strives to make hospitals a better place for children to heal, ensuring that every child, regardless of their medical journey, experiences joy, hope, and resilience.
